SEYCHELLES

Located in the middle of nowhere, these islands, which are believed to be amongst the most beautiful in the world, are still incredibly unspoilt, despite attracting visitors year-round. This magical group of approximately 115 islands is located just off the East African coast in the Indian Ocean, north-east of Madagascar.

Mahe, the largest of the islands, is surrounded by coral reefs, powdery white sands (there are almost 70 beaches on Mahe alone) and lush vegetation, rising through plantations of coconut palms and cinnamon to forested peaks.

Total Area: 459 km2

Capital: Victoria

Country Code: +248

Country Population: 92,000

Credit Cards: MasterCard / Access and Visa cards are widely accepted while Diners Club and American Express cards are honoured to a somewhat lesser extent.

Currency: Seychellois rupee (SCR)

Drives on the: Left

Electricity: 220-240 volts 50 Hz

Ethnic Groups: 93.2% Seychellois Creole, 3.0% British, 1.8% French, 0.5% Chinese, 0.3% Indian, 1.2% others

Location:  Island country spanning an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, 1,500 kilometres east of mainland Africa, northeast of the island of Madagascar.

Official Language(s): French, English, Seychellois Creole

Religion: 83% Roman Catholic with Anglican, Seventh Day Adventist, Muslim and other minorities.

Time Zone: GMT+4

Tipping: Most charges (restaurant, hotel, taxis, porters, etc) already include a 5% to 10% service charge or “tip” and so tipping is not obligatory in Seychelles.